5 Diving Destinations in Spain you can't miss out
Diving in Spain: destinations
- Costa Brava, Catalonia
- Lanzarote, Canary Islands
- Tabarca Island, Valencian Community
- Cabo de Palos, Murcia
- Formentera
Spain is home to some of the world's best diving sites, with clear waters, rich marine biodiversity, and fascinating underwater landscapes. From the volcanic Canary Islands to the warm waters of the Mediterranean, we present to you five diving destinations you cannot miss, complemented by tourist attractions and local gastronomy for a complete experience.
Costa Brava, Catalonia: An Underwater Journey That Transcends the Depths
The Costa Brava, located in the northeast of Spain, is a world-renowned diving destination, cherished by both beginners and experts for its clear waters rich in marine life. This stretch of the Mediterranean coastline offers an impressive variety of diving sites, from underwater caves to ancient shipwrecks, all inhabited by a diverse marine fauna and flora.
Discover the Dives of Costa Brava
The Costa Brava in Catalonia is a paradise for divers, thanks to its diverse underwater topography and rich marine life. Here I present to you some highlighted diving spots that every diving enthusiast should consider exploring in this beautiful region of Spain.
The waters surrounding the Medas Islands are clear and calm, providing excellent visibility, often exceeding 30 meters. Divers can explore a vibrant underwater world, full of colorful coral reefs, vast meadows of Posidonia seagrass, and abundant marine life, including schools of fish, octopuses, moray eels, and occasionally, sea turtles.
Dive Paradis, located in L'Estartit, stands out as the leading diving centre in the region, specialising in dives in the Medas Islands archipelago. This group of seven islands, declared a Marine Reserve more than 30 years ago, is a sanctuary for marine life and offers exceptional conditions for diving.
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Medas Islands
- Location: Off the coast of L'Estartit.
- Characteristics: This protected archipelago is one of the best diving spots in the Mediterranean, known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. Dives here offer close encounters with schools of fish, moray eels, octopuses, and occasionally, rays and sharks.
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El Furió Fitó
- Location: Near the Medas Islands.
- Characteristics: This dive is for advanced divers due to its currents. The site is famous for its vertical walls and the chance to see large pelagic fish, as well as abundant marine life in a spectacular setting.
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La Cueva de la Vaca
- Location: Near Tamariu.
- Characteristics: This underwater cave offers a unique experience for experienced divers. It features narrow passageways teeming with marine life and the opportunity to experience the thrilling sensation of cave diving.
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El Boreas
- Location: Near Palamós.
- Characteristics: This wreck, a former tugboat intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef, is now home to an impressive variety of marine life. Divers can explore the entire ship, including its decks and engine room.
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Ullastres
- Location: Near Llafranc.
- Characteristics: The three underwater peaks known as Ullastres are famous for their stunning rock formations, gorgonian gardens, and diverse marine life. They are suitable for divers of all levels and offer multiple diving routes.
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Cala Montjoi
- Location: Near Roses.
- Characteristics: This site is ideal for divers of all levels, including beginners. It offers calm and clear waters with good visibility and is an excellent place to see a wide variety of Mediterranean fish, octopuses, and cuttlefish.
These diving spots in the Costa Brava are not only recognized for their beauty and biological diversity, but also for the quality of the diving experiences they offer, from thrilling cave and wreck dives to exploring Posidonia meadows and close encounters with marine life. Each site offers a unique window into the vibrant underwater world of the Costa Brava, promising unforgettable adventures beneath the Mediterranean Sea.
Not Just Diving: Explore the Costa Brava
Beyond diving, the Costa Brava is a treasure of culture, history, and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy picturesque fishing villages, magnificent beaches and hidden coves, as well as exceptional cuisine that combines the best of sea and land.
Stroll through Calella de Palafrugell: A charming fishing village with white houses, small and cozy beaches, and a vibrant cultural life.
Explore the Ruins of Empúries: A unique archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the Greek and Roman civilizations in Catalonia.
To complement your visit to the Costa Brava, immersing yourself in its rich gastronomy, which reflects the diversity and quality of local products from the sea and land, is essential. Below, you will find recommendations for restaurants that stand out not only for their exceptional cuisine, but also for offering unique experiences that capture the essence of this magnificent destination.
Run by the Roca brothers, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers an innovative culinary experience where creativity and Catalan tradition merge in every dish.
Specialty: A seasonal tasting menu that highlights local products in avant-garde preparations.
Located in the picturesque village of Llafranc, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and dishes that enhance the flavors of the sea.
Specialty: Local rice dishes and fish, prepared with a modern twist without losing the essence of Catalan cuisine.
The Costa Brava, with its perfect combination of underwater and terrestrial adventures, promises not just to satisfy the thirst of diving enthusiasts but also to ignite the passion of those seeking experiences beyond the conventional. This diving journey is truly a gateway to a world where beauty, taste, and adventure intertwine, inviting you to return time and again.
No matter your level of experience or interests outside the water, the Costa Brava awaits you with open arms, promising not just memorable dives but also moments you will cherish forever. So, get ready to dive in, explore, and fall in love with this exceptional corner of Spain, where every day above and below the sea is a new adventure waiting to be discovered.
2. Lanzarote, Canary Islands: Beneath the Surface of the Island of Volcanoes
Lanzarote, known for its surreal volcanic landscape and crystal-clear waters, is a privileged destination for diving and nature enthusiasts. The island offers not only exceptional diving sites but also a rich culture, culinary delights, and unique wines that reflect the uniqueness of its terrain.
Rubicón Diving in Playa Blanca and Calero Diving in Puerto Calero are two diving centers that provide an entryway to the fascinating underwater world of Lanzarote. From dives for beginners to adventures for experienced divers, these centers offer everything needed to explore the island's vibrant marine ecosystems. Located in the southern area of Lanzarote, this center offers boat dives docked at its own diving center for the comfort of all divers. The dives include the famous Atlantic Museum, the first underwater museum in Europe, as well as explorations of volcanic reefs that include Las Coloradas, Las Lenguas, Flamingo, among others.
In the style of a boutique diving center located in the exclusive marina of Puerto Calero, this center specializes in offering personalized diving experiences, as well as technical diving and rebreathers. This center has taken advantage of the exceptional marine conditions of Lanzarote to explore the diversity of underwater life and offer boat dives to all points of Puerto del Carmen: La Catedral, the Blue Hole, Waikiki, the Tuna Balcony, to name a few.
Location: Near Playa Blanca. A 5-minute boat ride from Rubicon Diving.
Characteristics: It is the first underwater museum in Europe, created by the artist Jason deCaires Taylor. It consists of more than 300 sculptures that were placed on the seabed to create an artificial reef. It is accessible to divers of all levels and offers a surreal and reflective experience.
2. Las coloradas
The Las Coloradas reef is the most extensive in Playa Blanca and is divided into two diving spots, known as Coloradas 1 and 2. With depths ranging from 12 to 18 meters, both sites are suitable for divers of all experience levels. This reef offers the opportunity to explore small underwater tunnels and ascend to its summit through natural chimneys.
A notable feature of the reef is its relative narrowness, allowing for the exploration of both sides and its traversal from one end to the other. Additionally, being aligned parallel to the coast, it is protected from currents, providing a safe habitat for schools of barracudas, samas, rays (known as "chuchos" in the Canary Islands), and angel sharks.
3. La Catedral
Location: Near Puerto del Carmen
Characteristics: This dive site is known for its impressive rock formation that resembles an underwater cathedral. It is suitable for advanced divers due to its depth. The "Cathedral" is a large volcanic tunnel that is home to a diversity of marine life, including schools of barracuda and occasionally manta rays
4. The Blue Hole
Location: Between Playa Chica and the Cathedral.
Characteristics: An impressive underwater tunnel that connects to the open ocean through a vertical opening, known as the Blue Hole. This dive is for intermediate to advanced divers and offers the opportunity to see pelagic marine life, including angel sharks, at certain times of the year.
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Playa Flamingo
Location: Near Playa Blanca.
Characteristics: Ideal for beginner divers and diving courses, Playa Flamingo offers calm and clear waters with abundant marine life in a protected environment. It's an excellent place to practice diving skills and enjoy relaxed dives.
Each of these diving spots in Lanzarote not only provides the opportunity to explore the rich marine ecosystem of the Canary Islands but also offers a window into the region's impressive underwater volcanic geology. From underwater museums to volcanic cathedrals, Lanzarote promises unforgettable diving experiences that will captivate both beginners and experienced divers.
Download the Lanzarote Diving Guide (PDF)
Tourist Attractions: Beyond Diving
Lanzarote captivates with its art, culture, and natural landscapes, making it a comprehensive tourist destination:
Timanfaya National Park: Known as the Fire Mountains, this park offers a unique view of the volcanic force that has shaped the island. Tours allow visitors to experience geothermal activity in action and explore the lunar landscape through guided routes.
Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes: Two natural wonders created by the flow of lava. Jameos del Agua houses a unique underground lake, while Cueva de los Verdes amazes with its rock formations and pirate history.
La Geria: This distinctive wine region of Lanzarote is famous for its unique cultivation technique in holes protected by stone walls. It's the perfect place to taste the island's volcanic wines and admire the unique agricultural landscape.
Cactus Garden: Designed by César Manrique, this spectacular garden displays varieties of cacti from around the world, integrating art and nature.
Tourist Guide of Lanzarote
Gastronomy in Lanzarote: Flavors You Can't Miss
To provide a complete culinary experience in Lanzarote, we'll integrate recommendations for outstanding restaurants in various areas of the island, ensuring that every visitor finds top-quality gastronomic options, no matter where they are exploring.
Each of these restaurants reflects an aspect of Lanzarote's rich culinary culture, from the delicacy of seafood to the uniqueness of wines produced on volcanic soil. The island offers a gastronomic adventure that perfectly complements its underwater and terrestrial experiences, ensuring that each visit is memorable both for its adventures and its flavors.
Casa Carlos in Marina Rubicón: Located in the elegant Marina Rubicón sports harbor, it is known for its excellent service and traditional dishes with a modern twist. It's not just a restaurant; it's a culinary experience that reflects the essence of Lanzarote. With panoramic views of the harbor and a cozy atmosphere, this establishment is the ideal place for those looking to enjoy Canarian cuisine with a modern and creative touch.
The menu at Casa Carlos is distinguished by its selection of dishes made with the freshest products from the sea and land. Among its specialties is the Grilled Octopus on a bed of sweet potato, a delight for the senses that combines the perfect texture of octopus with the sweetness of the local sweet potato. Another star dish is its Seafood Risotto, a rich and creamy interpretation.
Stratus in La Geria: In the heart of the La Geria wine region, Stratus offers not only spectacular views of the vineyards in volcanic craters but also a gastronomic experience that merges local cuisine with contemporary techniques. Don't forget to try their selection of local wines.
El Risco, in Famara offers not only stunning views of Famara beach but also exceptional cuisine, with an emphasis on local and seasonal products. It's the perfect place to savor Lanzarote's cuisine after a day of surfing or exploration.
Lanzarote, the Heart of Your Next Underwater Adventure
At the epicentre of this magical experience lies Rubicón Diving, not just as a diving centre but as your gateway to the underwater wonders of Lanzarote. Our passion and dedication are reflected in every guided adventure, every diving course, and in the meticulous selection of diving sites that guarantee close encounters with the vibrant marine life and the unique geological formations of the island. From the famous Atlantic Museum to the hidden secrets in the depths of Las Coloradas, Rubicón Diving accompanies you with every underwater breath, ensuring unforgettable experiences.
But Lanzarote offers more than exceptional dives; it's a destination where culture, gastronomy, and nature intertwine to enrich your stay. After a day of underwater exploration, the island invites you to savour its volcanic wines, lose yourself in its lunar landscapes at Timanfaya National Park, or simply relax on its golden sand beaches, watching the sunset over the ocean.
Therefore, whether you are an experienced diver in search of your next great adventure or a beginner eager to discover diving in a spectacular setting, Lanzarote, Rubicón Diving, and Calero Diving, our sibling diving centre, await you.
Come and dive into the unique charm of the Island of Volcanoes, and let Lanzarote be the heart of your next underwater adventure. Because in Lanzarote, every dive is a story, and we're here to help you write yours.
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Tabarca Island, Valencian Community: A Paradise in the Valencian Community
Tabarca Island, located off the coast of Alicante in the Valencian Community, is the only inhabited island in the region and an exceptional place for diving, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and protection as a marine reserve. Here, I present to you some highlighted diving sites on Tabarca Island that offer unique underwater experiences for divers of all levels.
To get to Tabarca Island, the most common starting point is the city of Alicante, although it can also be accessed from Santa Pola. These are the main methods to reach the island:
From Alicante:
- Ferries and Boats: There are several companies that operate ferry services from the port of Alicante to Tabarca Island. The journey usually lasts about an hour, depending on sea conditions and the type of vessel. These ferries offer regular services, especially in the summer months, with several departures daily.
From Santa Pola:
- Ferries and Boats: Santa Pola is the closest departure point to Tabarca Island, just about 8 km away by sea. From here, you can take a ferry that will take you to the island in approximately 30 minutes. There are several departures daily, and the service increases during the high tourism season.
Tabarca Island, off the coast of Alicante, is Spain's first Marine Reserve and offers clear waters and a rich underwater life. Tabarca's Dive stands out for its diving excursions that allow you to explore this unique ecosystem, ideal for both beginners and advanced divers.
Diving Spots on the Island
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La Llosa
Location: Southwest of the island.
Characteristics: It is a large rock that offers one of the best dives in the area. Diving at La Llosa allows for the exploration of an underwater relief full of tunnels and arches, with rich biodiversity, including large schools of barracudas, moray eels, and occasionally, sharks at certain times of the year.
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El Faro
Location: Near the Tabarca lighthouse.
Characteristics: This site is ideal for divers of all levels and is especially known for its easy access and excellent diving conditions. Divers can enjoy calm and clear waters, exploring the marine ecosystem surrounding the lighthouse, including rockfish, octopuses, and a variety of underwater flora.
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Nao de San Pascual
Location: To the east of the island.
Characteristics: This is a wreck, the Nao de San Pascual, intentionally sunk in the 1930s, which now serves as an artificial reef. This site attracts a diversity of marine life and is perfect for underwater photography enthusiasts. It is suitable for intermediate divers due to its depth and the possibility of currents.
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La Escalera
Location: On the north side of the island.
Characteristics: Known for its rock formations that resemble descending steps, La Escalera is a diving site that offers the opportunity to closely observe Mediterranean marine life in a calm and clear environment. Ideal for intermediate level divers, it offers encounters with Nudibranchia, cuttlefish, and occasionally
5. Campo de Algas
Location: Near the west coast of the island.
Characteristics: This site is noted for its extensive meadows of Posidonia oceanica, which are crucial for the biodiversity of the Mediterranean. It is a relatively easy dive, suitable for all levels, and allows observers to see the importance of these seaweeds in the marine ecosystem, in addition to finding seahorses among them.
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Punta de la Galera
Location: To the northeast of the island.
Characteristics: This point offers a more adventurous dive with walls and drops that host a diverse marine life. Suitable for divers with a bit more experience, Punta de la Galera is an excellent place to observe large specimens of fish, as well as interesting rock formations.
Tabarca Island is a diving destination that stands out not only for the clarity of its waters and the protection of its marine reserve, but also for the variety of underwater experiences it offers, from relaxed dives in seaweed meadows to exciting explorations of wrecks and rock formations. Each diving site in Tabarca promises a unique adventure, revealing the beauty and richness of the Mediterranean.
Tourist Attractions, discovering Tabarca Island: A Jewel of the Valencian Community
Tabarca Island, the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community, offers more than just exceptional diving spots; it is a haven of culture, history, and natural beauty. Visitors can immerse themselves in a unique environment where the essence of a simpler life is preserved, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.
Historical Fortifications
Walk through the remnants of the island's fortifications, which once protected its inhabitants from pirates and invaders. These walls tell the story of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the island's strategic importance throughout history.
Church of San Pedro and San Pablo
Visit this 18th-century church that stands as a testament to the island's religious and cultural heritage. Its architecture and location in the heart of Tabarca add to the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the island.
Museo de Tabarca
Explore the Museo de Tabarca (Tabarca's Museum), housed in the former Governor's House, to learn about the island's fascinating history, from its days as a refuge for Barbary pirates to its settlement by Genoese prisoners.
Natural Reserves and Beaches
Experience the natural beauty of Tabarca's marine reserve, which surrounds the island. The crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal spot for snorkeling and enjoying the Mediterranean sun.
Gastronomía Local
Tabarca's culinary offerings are another one of its attractions, highlighting traditional dishes such as "caldero tabarquino," a fish stew that reflects the essence of the Mediterranean.
For those looking to plan their visit in detail, the government tourism website offers maps, practical information about the island, and recommendations to make the most of your stay in Tabarca. Find everything you need to know for your adventure in Tabarca.
Every diving spot on Tabarca Island invites you to dive into a parallel world of beauty and serenity, where time stops and reality fades into the blue vastness. Whether you're seeking an exciting adventure or just a moment of peace and tranquility beneath the waves, this destination offers you the opportunity to live an unforgettable underwater experience.
4. Cabo de Palos, Murcia: A Submarine Sanctuary in the Mediterranean
Cabo de Palos, located on the coast of Murcia, is a beacon for divers looking to explore one of the Mediterranean's best-kept secrets. With its protected marine reserve, this region offers astonishing underwater diversity, making it a top-tier diving destination in Spain. From spectacular walls and canyons to shipwrecks steeped in history, Cabo de Palos promises memorable dives with every plunge.
Overall, whether traveling by air, train, or car, reaching Cabo de Palos is convenient and straightforward, allowing visitors to easily access this stunning diving destination on the Mediterranean coast of Murcia.
Highlighted Diving Sites
Bajo de Dentro
An ideal site for divers of all levels, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, including large schools of barracudas and groupers.
Cabo de Palos Lighthouse
The dive around the lighthouse offers a unique experience, with underwater landscapes that include rocky formations and a high biodiversity.
Carbonero Wreck
One of the most famous wrecks in the area, suitable for advanced divers. The Carbonero, a sunken ship, is now an artificial reef teeming with life.
Cala Correos
Perfect for beginners and night diving, this protected cove offers calm waters and the opportunity to observe cuttlefish, octopuses, and Nudibranchia.
In addition to its waters, Cabo de Palos delights with its culinary offerings, especially fresh rice dishes and seafood in restaurants overlooking the sea. You can't miss Restaurante Miramar, famous for its traditional dishes and paella. http://restaurantemiramar.com/
El Faro de Cabo de Palos Lighthouse, iconic and with a history dating back over 150 years, is another must-see. Its views of the Mediterranean at sunset are simply unparalleled.
For those looking to plan their adventure in Cabo de Palos, the official tourism website of the Region of Murcia offers valuable information, from diving guides to gastronomic and accommodation recommendations.
In summary, Cabo de Palos is not just a destination; it is a transformative experience awaiting those willing to immerse themselves in its magical waters. Here, where the Mediterranean unfolds its splendor, each dive is a new adventure, an opportunity to connect with the majestic underwater world. Cabo de Palos' dive sites, from its vibrant reefs to its mysterious shipwrecks, are a testament to the beauty and diversity lying beneath the sea's surface.
Beyond diving, Cabo de Palos enchants with its picturesque lighthouse, rich culinary offerings, and an atmosphere that blends tranquility with adventure. This corner of Murcia not only promises thrilling dives but also moments of serenity and delight, making it an ideal destination for any sea lover.
So, whether you seek the thrill of exploring a new world underwater, savoring exquisite local cuisine, or simply enjoying unforgettable sunsets, Cabo de Palos awaits to offer you a peerless experience. Are you ready to let the waters of Cabo de Palos guide you through an unforgettable journey?
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Formentera: A Submarine Eden in the Heart of the Mediterranean
Formentera, the smallest island of the Balearics, is a sanctuary both on land and under the sea. Known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and serene atmosphere, it offers a diving experience so pure and preserved that each visit feels like uncovering a guarded secret. From explorations in crystal-clear waters to close encounters with marine life in its most natural state, Formentera is a diving destination that promises to amaze both beginners and experts alike.
The journey to Formentera begins in Ibiza, as the island does not have its own airport. Ferries depart regularly from Ibiza Town, taking visitors on a short but charming journey across the Mediterranean to Formentera. The proximity allows for even day trips, although many choose to stay longer to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of the island.
Several companies operate ferry services between Ibiza and Formentera, making access to the island convenient.
Diving Sites in Formentera
Mariana Platform
An artificial submerged structure that has become home to an impressive variety of marine life. It is ideal for underwater photographers and those interested in seeing how marine life adopts and flourishes on man-made structures.
Cueva de la Luz (Cave of Light)
A diving site that takes divers through a naturally illuminated underwater cave, offering a stunning visual spectacle. Suitable for divers of all levels, the cave is a testament to Formentera's natural magic.
El Dado Pequeño (The Small Dice)
Located near the famous islet of Es Vedrà, this site offers rocky walls and the opportunity to observe large pelagic species. It is a challenging and rewarding diving site, ideal for the most adventurous divers.
In addition to its clear waters and marine life, Formentera seduces with its natural landscape, cycling paths that traverse the island, and a gastronomy that celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean. Enjoying seafood paella at a beachside chiringuito is an experience that defines the essence of Formentera.
For those eager to explore this paradise, the official tourism website of Formentera offers all the necessary information to plan your trip, from diving guides to accommodation and restaurant recommendations.
Formentera is more than just a diving destination; it's a sanctuary where time stands still, and natural beauty invites reflection and wonder. Here, each dive is a reminder of the delicate balance that sustains life beneath the sea and a call to preserve the serenity and purity that make Formentera an underwater Eden. Dive into the waters of Formentera and let the heart of the Mediterranean reveal its most precious secrets.
From the crystal-clear waters of Lanzarote to the enchanting underwater secrets of Formentera, passing through the biodiversity of the Costa Brava and the mysteries lying in the depths of Cabo de Palos, Spain emerges as a world-class diving destination. Each dive offers a window into a world teeming with life, color, and adventures waiting to be discovered.
At Rubicón Diving, we not only understand the magic that lies within diving in these waters; we're dedicated to sharing it with you.
Diving in Spain is embarking on a journey of continuous discovery, where historical richness and natural exuberance meet beneath the sea. The waters surrounding Lanzarote, in particular, offer an unparalleled experience, from the submerged art of the Atlantic Museum to breathtaking volcanic formations; every dive with Rubicón Diving is a story you'll want to tell.
But the adventure doesn't end in Lanzarote. Spain is a mosaic of underwater ecosystems, and at Rubicón Diving, we invite you to explore them all. Whether marveling at the serenity of Formentera, exploring the vibrant diving sites of the Costa Brava, or uncovering hidden treasures in Cabo de Palos, our team is ready to guide you on every dive.
